| Transportation seating system -> Monitor Keywords |
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Transportation seating systemTransportation seating system description/claimsThe Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20070069558, Transportation seating system. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to seating systems, and more particularly to transportation seating systems. [0002] A wide variety of transportation seating systems have been developed for use in public transportation vehicles. Such vehicles include busses, subways, and streetcars. While the systems developed to date have gained widespread acceptance, there is a continuing need for improved systems which are simpler, less expensive, more functional, and safer. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0003] The present invention is directed to a transportation seating system incorporating a variety of novel concepts. [0004] In a first aspect of the invention, the seating system includes a frame assembly supporting one or more seat shells. The frame assembly in turn includes a seat beam and a beam support. The beam support includes a beam body and a connector inserted into the body. The connector and the body therefore are in compression under the weight of the system and the seating occupants. Further preferably, the seat beam and the beam support are hingedly interconnected, so that the frame can be 1) folded for shipment and storage or 2) unfolded for installation in a vehicle. [0005] In a second aspect of the invention, the system includes a frame assembly supporting one or more seat shells. The frame assembly includes a seat beam for supporting the seat shells, and a beam support for supporting the seat beam. The beam support includes a beam body and a pair of connectors inserted into opposite ends of the body. The body defines a plurality of openings or receivers, and each connector defines a plurality of lugs each closely received within one of the openings. This structure provides a simple yet highly effective interconnection of the frame components. [0006] In a third aspect of the invention, a unique connector system is provided between the seat beam and the beam support. More specifically, the seat beam defines at least one channel and includes a first connector slidably received within the channel. A second connector is outside the channel and adapted to be connected to the beam support. A fastener extends through the second connector and into the first connector to draw the two connectors together to secure the connectors in a fixed position along the length of the seat beam. The connection system enhances the adaptability and modularity of the system by enabling the seat beam and the beam support to be interconnected in a variety of relative positions. The connection system also enables the seat beam to be precisely horizontally installed regardless of potential variations in the supporting structure. [0007] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the system includes a novel structure for interconnecting the seats and the seat beam. More specifically, the seat beam includes a front portion and a back portion. The seat includes an integral flange extending around the rear portion of the beam. A fastener extends through the seat and into the front portion of the beam. The interconnection is simple, effective, and safe. The ease of the interconnection also facilitates the modularity of the system and enables the seats to be easily installed after the installation of the frame assemblies, reducing the likelihood of seat damage during vehicle construction. [0008] In a fifth aspect of the invention, two of the seats are mounted side-by-side on the seat beam. The seat backs taper and therefore define an upwardly opening v-shaped slot. A seat tie or filler is installed in the lower portion of the slot to prevent objects such as coat strings and buttons from becoming trapped in the slot. The tie also can be a structural component to assist in interconnecting and aligning the adjacent seat shells. [0009] In a sixth aspect of the invention, the seat is an integral one-piece molded article. The seat includes a seat body and a grab rail extending from the seat body, preferably from the seat back. The one-piece construction provides seat and grab rail in a relatively simple and efficient construction without the requirement of multiple interconnected parts. [0010] These and other objects, advantages, and features of the invention will be more fully understood and appreciated by reference to the description of the current embodiments and the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0011] FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of the transportation seating system of the present invention; [0012] FIG. 2 is a lower front perspective view of the seating system; [0013] FIG. 3 is a lower rear perspective view of the seating system; [0014] FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of the seating system; [0015] FIG. 5 is an upper exploded perspective view of the frame assembly; [0016] FIG. 6 is a lower exploded perspective view of the frame assembly; [0017] FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along Line VII-VII in FIG. 1 showing the interconnection of the seat beam and the seat; [0018] FIG. 8 is a sectional view similar to FIG. 7 showing the alternative interconnection of the seat beam and the beam support; [0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the T-nut used in the alternative connection system; [0020] FIG. 10 is an end elevational view of the beam support body; [0021] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the beam support connector; Continue reading about Transportation seating system... Full patent description for Transportation seating system Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Transportation seating system patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. Start now! - Receive info on patent apps like Transportation seating system or other areas of interest. ### Previous Patent Application: Bicycle seat Next Patent Application: Fastening system and associated anchoring part for a seat Industry Class: Chairs and seats ### FreshPatents.com Support Thank you for viewing the Transportation seating system patent info. 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